For many reasons, adults may suffer an illness, injury, or other medical condition that makes it impossible for them to work. In these situations, they may receive Social Security disability insurance benefits that help to pay for living expenses. They may also be eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid is a public health care program that pays for doctor’s visits, medical services, and prescription drugs.

Disability Benefits at Retirement Age

Social Security disability benefits will automatically switch over to Social Security retirement benefits once the individual reaches their eligible age of retirement, generally around 62 to 70 depending on when they were born.

If they are eligible for Social Security spousal benefits, they will also receive this payment each month—however, they must apply to receive this benefit. In many cases, the monthly benefit amount received will not change, and may increase depending on how long the individual worked. Other considerations include if they currently receive a monthly pension, and how much was earned toward Social Security retirement benefits before they became disabled.

Compassionate Allowance Rule

There are some other, special circumstances for people who are receiving Social Security disability benefits. Under the Compassionate Allowances determination, the Social Security Administration may provide additional allowances and fast-track benefits for those who are the most disabled and meet certain medical criteria. For example, someone facing a life-threatening illness and nearing retirement age may be eligible for this determination.

This can include a catastrophic injury or illness, a physical or mental impairment, or another medical condition that prevents one from holding meaningful employment.

A Social Security disability lawyer can help to define these factors to ensure that the individual can get this benefit, and it may take a few years to start receiving monthly disability checks.

How to Decide Whether or Not to Retire Early

If a person decides to retire early at the age of 62, their disability payments may continue at the same time as their retirement benefits, but at a reduced rate. For example, if you were near retirement age and decided to retire early due to chronic health problems, you could apply for disability insurance.

Once you reach 65, your disability payment will kick in. The Social Security Administration will make up the difference between the disability and the retirement benefits for a short period of time while this transition occurs.

The decision to retire is entirely up to each person. It is recommended that you speak with a knowledgeable attorney and financial advisor before taking this step.